Most New Jersey parents expect younger children to struggle when coming to terms with a divorce. But older children who are already out on their own can also have a hard time understanding and dealing with the dissolution of their parents’ marriage. While adult children may not have to go through as many life changes as kids who are still living in the family home, they can still experience some of the same hardships. When parents decide to divorce later in life, they can take some steps to help adult children understand the process and prepare for the changes ahead.
Divorce is hard on everyone
When children grow up and move out on their own, they may not realize that their parents are struggling in their marriage. No matter the age of the children, parents should refrain from speaking poorly about the other party. Oversharing information about new romantic relationships or other divorce-related details can be harmful to the parent-child relationship. Parents should take cues from their adult children and answer appropriate questions without revealing too much.
Parents can help their children understand that they are not to blame for the divorce and should actively discourage anyone from taking sides. Adult children of divorce can struggle with the changes in the family dynamic after their parents’ divorce. Therapy can be helpful for everyone involved as can encouraging healthy boundaries as the family relationships change.
Where to turn for legal help
Divorce is an emotional and trying time for an entire family, no matter the ages of the children. Parents who are going through a divorce can help their adult kids adjust to the new family dynamic. But ultimately, New Jersey parents going through a divorce can benefit most from seeking legal advice from an experienced family law attorney.